Illegal signs placed in the right-of-way have the potential to cause traffic hazards. The City receives more than 1,100 complaints about illegally placed signs cluttering roadways every year.

To curb this problem, the City now offers permits to place temporary signs in the right-of-way when meeting certain criteria. All other signs in the right-of-way will still be considered illegal if not permitted.

The City's Sign Sweep is an accelerated cleanup program to remove, and keep off, illegally placed signs from the City right-of-way.

Find information about sign placement and permits in Chapter 59 of our Municipal Code.

How can I get a sign permit?

You may purchase a permit to place a temporary sign in the right-of-way under certain conditions and by adhering to certain regulations. For more information about permanent or temporary signage, call the Development Center at (405) 297-2525, option 4.

Why does the City pick up signs?

Temporary signs have the potential to obstruct traffic and directional signage, clog gutters, and puncture the tires of vehicles when blown into the streets. We impound and dispose of the illegally placed signs we find, rather than holding them for pickup.

Where are signs illegal?

When located within the City’s street right-of-way without a “Temporary Sign Permit.” That’s the pavement and medians, of course, but it also includes land on either side of the street. Even if the sign is in front of your own business, it can’t be placed in the right of way. The width of the right of way depends on the width of the street: The wider the street, the wider the right of way on either side. Generally speaking, land between the curb and the sidewalk is in the right of way. On most streets, the right of way is a 12-foot strip on either side of the street.

Other "No Sign Zones" include:

• Any area between a curb and a sidewalk.
• Any telephone pole, electric pole, lamp post, street sign or parking meter.
• Street medians.
• Drinking fountains.
• Park roads and park property.

What do I do if I see a sign without a sticker or one with an expired sticker?

Report it to the Action Center, (405) 297-2535 or action.center@okc.gov.

Can I put a temporary sign on my property?  

Temporary signs placed on private property out of the City’s right of way are still legal and don’t need a permit. They may be displayed for up to 30 days, three times per year.  

Can I get my sign back if the City removes it?

No. Signs are thrown away. Property owners, even those which previously gave permission, also have the right to remove any temp sign from their frontage at any time.

Is there a fine or penalty for having an illegally-placed sign?

There can be. City inspectors can write citations for repeat offenders.